Severe weather in southeast South Dakota exposed Governor Kristi Noem’s shortcomings as she left the state for a political conference and interview, neglecting to adequately warn people about the impending danger. Despite her lackluster crisis response and departure for a fundraiser, she defended her actions, leaving many to question her priorities and leadership. Continue reading Flood washes away Noem’s false veneer of leadership
Homeowners allege inadequate warnings, authorities defend communication in the face of record floodwaters at McCook Lake, South Dakota. State and local authorities executed a flood mitigation plan, but some residents claim insufficient warnings. Cleanup and future plans are now in question as the community grapples with the aftermath of the devastating flood. Continue reading McCook Lake residents say their homes were sacrificed, and they want a new flood plan
South Dakota Republicans, including Governor Noem, criticize the conviction of ex-President Trump, showing a departure from their party’s traditional values. They voice concerns about the trial’s fairness and its potential impact on Trump’s political future. Their response highlights a shift away from prioritizing moral principles and the rule of law. Continue reading What further Trump sins and crimes will SD’s highest elected officials excuse?
Sex therapist and social worker Stefani Goerlich struggles when clients move away from Michigan due to restrictions on providing telehealth services across state lines. In response to America’s mental health crisis, an increasing number of states are empowering social workers to practice across state lines. The Social Work Licensure Compact is facilitating this, benefiting practitioners and patients alike. Continue reading Amid mental health crisis, new compact allows social workers to practice across state lines
The Iowa Department of Corrections was fined $1,500 for contempt of court after violating a judge’s order on inmate access to adult materials. The inmates’ lawsuit alleged denial of access to content with nudity or sexual explicitness. The DOC’s actions were deemed willful, resulting in multiple violations of the court order. (Word count: 50) Continue reading Judge holds Iowa Department of Corrections in contempt for violating order
In April, Union County Jail saw 83 arrests and housed 23 individuals awaiting trial or serving sentences. Among the charges, DUI and theft offenses were prevalent. The Sheriff’s Office also collected $56,714.77 for the general fund in March. The month saw 262 911 calls, 3,027 admin calls, 772 jail calls, and 1,407 calls for service. Continue reading Union County Sheriff’s Report: April, 2024
South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem’s upcoming memoir reveals that she shot and killed her healthy 14-month-old German wirehaired pointer, Cricket, due to unruly behavior. This has sparked controversy and calls into question her responsible dog ownership. The governor’s attempt to portray herself as a tough problem-solver clashes with this action. The story has garnered significant attention, both in social and traditional media. Continue reading What Noem’s shot heard around the world says about her approach to problems
The South Dakota Department of Health is launching Wellness on Wheels (WOW) mobile clinics to provide essential healthcare services to underserved communities. The initiative aims to address healthcare barriers, improve health outcomes, and promote wellness. The mobile clinics will offer a range of services including WIC, immunizations, oral health, and STD testing, among others. Continue reading DOH unveils WOW Mobile Clinics to improve healthcare access to underserved communities in South Dakota
State, city and county food inspectors have cited Iowa and South Dakota restaurants and stores for hundreds of food-safety violations in recent weeks, including unsourced beef, lack of food thermometers, unclean equipment, handling food with bare hands, repeat violations and dirty kitchens.
The findings are reported by the Iowa Department of Inspections, Appeals and Licensing, which handles food-establishment inspections at the state level. South Dakota food establishment inspections are handled by the South Dakota Department of Health. Listed below are some of the findings that stem from inspections at Siouxland restaurants and convenience stores over the past four weeks or so.
Continue reading Restaurant inspection update for April: Undated food, dirty carts, bare hands
The North Sioux City Council met to canvass election votes, revealing wrong dates for plat tracts and absentee voter irregularities. The appointment of a new city alderman was delayed, and the finalization of a former city administrator’s severance package was approved. Additionally, routine agenda items and bill payments were discussed. Council also addressed future city administrator and alderman appointments. Continue reading The continuing saga of NSC City Hall: Parts 2.1 and 2.2
The Siouxland Observer 